The Coton de Tulear is a relative to the Bichon-type dogs and the Italian Bolognese. Coton is the French word for Cotton. Like the name suggests the most conspicuous feature of the Coton De Tulear is its coat, which is cottony or fluffy rather than silky; it has a long topcoat.

Some have slightly yellowish markings on the ears. This little dog is very affectionate and gets along well with children, other dogs and animals.

Charakter

The Coton De Tulear is very friendly, gentle, affectionate, and alert. This breed is very sociable. It is very devoted and attached to its home and masters – wanting always to be in their presence and trying its best to please; one of its most endearing traits is a tendency to jump and walk on its hind legs. Full of tricks and surprises to fulfill its master’s every wish.

The Coton makes a perfect family dog and great watchdog. The Coton learns quite quickly but can be a little bit stubborn. Although it is intelligent and eager to work, it does have a mind of its own. It makes a very good companion to children.

Colors

Colors come in white & black and white (white is preferred by breeders).

Coat

Single coated. The coat is approximately 3-3 inches long, fine, slightly wavy, texture of cotton, shown in natural state. Slight lemon or gray color on ears is acceptable; dark pigmentation. Requires daily, careful grooming, the dead hair should be brushed and combed out. It does not need a bath more than once or twice a year, which will be adequate to keep it clean. The coat should not be trimmed. This breed sheds little to no hair; it is good for allergy sufferers.

Gesundheitsprobleme

Generally they are a healthy breed with no major genetic defects. Luxating Patellas and hip dysplasia can be a minor factor. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints.

However, to make sure that you get a healthy puppy, you should buy a Coton puppy from a reputable Coton de Tulear breeder.

Lebensumfeld

The Coton is good for apartment life. It is fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. This dog likes swimming and playing. It enjoys wide open spaces and can follow its masters on horseback for many miles. It does well in various areas of dog sports such as agility skills trials and catch.